A leaky faucet might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can waste a significant amount of water over time and increase your utility bills. Luckily, fixing a leaky faucet is a straightforward task that most homeowners can tackle themselves with just a few tools. Here’s how you can stop the drip in five simple steps:

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

Before you start working on the faucet, it’s essential to turn off the water supply to avoid making a mess. Locate the shutoff valves under the sink, and turn them clockwise to close them. If you can’t find the individual shutoff valves, you may need to turn off the main water supply to the house.

• Tip: Place a towel or rag around the drain to catch any small parts that might fall while you’re working.

2. Plug the Drain and Remove the Handle

To prevent any small parts from falling down the drain, use a sink plug or a rag to block it off. Then, remove the handle of the faucet to access the inner components. Depending on your faucet type, you may need a screwdriver (either flathead or Phillips) to remove screws. For many models, the screw will be hidden under a decorative cap or cover.

• Tip: Take a picture of the faucet’s assembly as you disassemble it. This can help you reassemble it correctly later.

3. Inspect the Parts and Identify the Issue

Once you remove the handle, you’ll typically see a nut or screw holding the faucet valve in place. Use a wrench to loosen and remove it. After removing the valve, inspect the components for damage. The most common cause of a leaky faucet is a worn-out washer or O-ring, especially in compression faucets.

• Look for:
  • Worn washers: These rubber or plastic components seal the valve to prevent leaks. Over time, they can wear out or become damaged.
  • Damaged O-rings: O-rings are small rubber rings that help seal parts of the faucet. If these are cracked or worn, they can cause leaking.
  • Corrosion: Mineral buildup or rust can also lead to leaks, particularly if you live in an area with hard water.

4. Replace the Damaged Parts

Once you identify the damaged component (whether it’s a washer, O-ring, or other part), take it to a hardware store to find an exact replacement. Make sure to match the size and type of the part with the one you removed.

• Tip: If you can’t find an exact match, take the old part with you so you can compare it to the available replacements.
• Replace washers or O-rings: Place the new washer or O-ring in the same position as the old one. Be sure it’s seated properly to ensure a tight seal.

5. Reassemble the Faucet and Test

After replacing the damaged part, carefully reassemble the faucet in the reverse order. First, place the valve back into the faucet body, then tighten the nut or screw you removed earlier. Attach the handle, securing it with the screw, and replace any decorative caps.

Once the faucet is reassembled, turn the water supply back on and test the faucet for leaks. Run both hot and cold water through the faucet to ensure it’s working properly and the leak has been fixed.

• Tip: If the faucet still leaks after replacing the parts, you may need to check if other components, like the valve seat, are damaged. In some cases, a more thorough repair or even a replacement faucet might be necessary.

Conclusion

Fixing a leaky faucet is a simple DIY project that can save you water and money. By following these five steps—turning off the water supply, removing the handle, inspecting and replacing damaged parts, and reassembling the faucet—you can restore your faucet to its original function in no time. If the problem persists after replacing the parts, it might be time to consult a professional plumber for further assistance.